Talking about different breast biopsy techniques

Women generally have to wait for biopsy appointments, which worsens a tense situation. Fortunately, 80%1 of biopsies are benign. But for radiologists this means that they can be deemed unnecessary.

Good for: suspicious solid masses, distortions in the breast tissue structure, and abnormal tissue change.2 It is also cost-effective.But: not all lesions are visible. Mostly it can’t show microcalcs.

Good for: microcalcs and lesions not seen with US, and findings not seen in 2D (tomo). Patient can’t see the biopsyBut: a second system, dedicated table, and extra room are needed. Using a different system than for diagnostics can complicate localization

Good for: microcalcs and lesions not seen with US, and findings not seen in 2D (tomo). Same system and angle are used for localization as for diagnostics – increasing accuracyBut: patient sees the procedure, and system is blocked during biopsy procedures

Good for: findings only seen in MRI. Zero radiation dose for the patient.However: calcs are not visible. MRI is not always available and it is costlyClinical contraindications: allergies contrast agent, metal, claustrophobia